Hurstpierpoint FC resign from Southern Combination Football League

Hurstpierpoint Football Club have this week informed the Southern Combination Football League (formerly Sussex County Football League) of their decision to resign from the league.

A statement on the club’s website said: “The club has played in the league since the formation of Division 3 in 1983, and has enjoyed some enjoyable seasons at intermediate level; most recently in 2013/14 when we lifted the Sussex Intermediate Cup.

“Amongst the highlights, there have been some difficult seasons for the club when we’ve finished at the wrong end of the league table. Often we’ve survived relegation on the basis that teams in feeder divisions have not had adequate facilities, or other clubs were folding.

“2015/16 has been no different for the club, and rather than wait for a decision from the league, we have decided that it’s time to step down divisions and rebuild the club in the Mid Sussex Football League.

“Playing in the SCFL will remain our ambition, and we will strive to maintain the same high standards off of the pitch that we have previously set ourselves. But if and when we return to that level, we want to be there on merit.

“Whilst it may initially be seen as a sad day for the club, the committee are incredibly excited about the future at Hurstpierpoint Football Club; a future that we were unlikely to have without making a change. In trying to survive in the SCFL we’ve not been accessible for local players, particularly those from the village.

“We can now invite these players to come and enjoy their football with the village football club.

“The club has played in the Mid Sussex Football League for the majority of its 128-year history, and we look forward to fixtures against other local village teams.

“By ensuring that we offer our players the best possible experience, on and off of the pitch, we will rebuild a competitive club with the potential for a long, and prosperous future.

Most importantly, we look forward to fulfilling our role as the village football team. We will be putting the village at the heart of the football club, in the hope that club can once again become part of the heart of the village.”

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